THE METHODOLOGY AND MYTHOLOGY OF THE CENSUS

(One of a continuing series on the Census)

XOCHICALCO, Morelos, Mexico -- The cavernous passages are pitch-black at this ancient ceremonial center. Suddenly and dramatically, a ray of light pierces the blackness, temporarily illuminating this underground chamber. Prayers are said to the four directions. An elder explains to us that this is an astronomical event, not a mystical phenomenon, that occurs twice yearly.

Xochicalco was actually a university, built long before the European arrival. This is where the great teacher Quetzalcoatl studied ... where the finest minds from throughout the continent gathered to exchange scientific, astronomical and calendrical knowledge.

The ancient connectedness felt here can also be felt at Teotihuacan and Monte Alban, also in Mexico; Tikal in Guatemala; Peru's Machu Pichu; and in the United States Chaco Canyon (N.M.) and Aztalan (Wis.). There are approximately 40,000 such sites in Mexico alone. Though most remain unexcavated, elders teach that none are ruins, that they all have a history and belong to all native peoples of the continent.

"They tried to destroy us," said the elder at Xochicalco, "They also attempted to destroy our knowledge, books, ceremonial centers and our connection to the land. ... // 76% Remaining